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Tremolo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tremolo

[trɪˈməʊləʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

A tremolo is a musical effect produced by rapidly repeated notes or a rapid fluctuation in the volume of a note.

Synonyms

quaver, vibrato.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tremolo

Tremolo refers to the rapid repetition of a single note or the rapid alternation between two notes in music. It is commonly used in string and keyboard instruments to create a shaking effect.

  • The violinist's tremolo added an intense emotional layer to the composition.
  • The pianist used a tremolo to build tension during the dramatic section of the piece.
vibrato

Vibrato is a musical technique involving a regular, pulsating change of pitch. It is primarily used by vocalists and instrumentalists to add expression and warmth to their performance.

  • The singer's vibrato gave her voice richness and depth.
  • String players often use vibrato to create a more expressive sound.
quaver

Quaver can refer to two things: a musical note with half the duration of a crotchet (eighth note) or a slight trembling in voice or sound. It is often used in vocal music to describe a shaky or unsteady voice, particularly due to nervousness or emotion.

  • His voice had a noticeable quaver as he began his speech, revealing his nervousness.
  • Singers need to control their quaver to maintain a steady tone during performances.

Examples of usage

  • The guitarist used a tremolo technique to create a shimmering sound.
  • The tremolo in the violin solo added an emotional depth to the piece.
Context #2 | Noun

guitar

A tremolo is a device on a guitar that varies the pitch of a note by changing the tension of the strings.

Synonyms

vibrato bar, whammy bar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tremolo

In the context of electric guitars, it can also refer to a tool or device that alters the pitch.

  • He adjusted the tremolo on his guitar to achieve the desired effect.
  • The guitarist used the tremolo to create a wavering sound.
whammy bar

This term is also used in relation to electric guitars and is synonymous with 'vibrato bar.' It tends to be used more often in rock and heavy metal contexts.

  • He hit the whammy bar hard during the guitar solo.
  • Using the whammy bar, the guitarist added a dramatic dive to the end of the song.
vibrato bar

Commonly used in the context of electric guitars, this term refers to a lever attached to the bridge that allows the player to modify the pitch of the notes or chords being played.

  • She used the vibrato bar to create a shimmering effect.
  • The guitarist's skillful use of the vibrato bar wowed the audience.

Examples of usage

  • He adjusted the tremolo on his guitar to create a subtle vibrato effect.
  • The tremolo bar allows the guitarist to perform dive bombs and other pitch variations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'tremolo'

The term 'tremolo' originates from the Italian word 'tremolare', which means 'to tremble'. In music, tremolo has been used for centuries to create a trembling or vibrating effect in both vocal and instrumental performances. The tremolo technique has evolved over time and is now commonly used in various genres of music to add texture and emotion to the sound.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,946 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.